James E. Fenske

Published 7:00 pm, Friday, November 20, 2009

James E. Fenske, 72, of Midland, died at the MidMichigan Medical Center on Wednesday, Nov. 18, 2009, surrounded by his family at his side.

The son of the late Edward and Viola Fenske was born on March 2, 1937, in Midland, where he was raised and educated, graduating from Midland High School in 1955. James served with the U.S. Air Force, returning to Midland where he worked as a supervisor for Continental Fiber Drum until his retirement in 1986. Jim enjoyed being outdoors, deer hunting, spending time at Indian River and casino play. He also drove a courtesy van at MidMichigan Medical Center and enjoyed being with his friends at Washington Woods.

Jim is survived by his daughters, Melissa Jellum and Kim (Terry) Sergent, and their mother, Jan Valentine. He will also be missed by grandchildren, Kalie, Kameron and Jenn Sergent; sisters, Joanne Nagy of Bay City, and Shirley (Warner) Jensen of Midland; and nephew and niece, Larry and Jean Kellogg. Jim also leaves his best friend, Elaine Harris.

Funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 23, 2009, from Trinity Lutheran Church with the Rev. Gerald Ferguson officiating. Interment will be in Midland Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

Visitation will be at the church on Monday from 9:30 a.m. until time of service. The family would prefer memorials be offered to the Pardee Cancer Treatment Fund of Midland.

Jim's family would like to offer their sincere appreciation to the nurses and staff at F-100 and to Dr. Yadam and Dr. Hurtubise for their care and professionalism. Jim's positive attitude and strong faith gave him the courage and strength to endure many years of health struggle.

Funeral arrangements are by the Wilson MILLER Funeral Home where personal messages of support may be left for the family at www.wilson-miller.com.